Varese - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Varese

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Varese, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Varese and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Varese, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Varese for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Varese

Varese is a city in Lombardy, Italy, situated in the north-western region of the country. It is located at the foothills of the Italian Alps and is known for its stunning natural beauty, lakes, and parks. The city has a rich history and culture, and is home to a number of notable landmarks and attractions such as the Sacro Monte of Varese, the Villa Toeplitz, and the Museo Civico Villa Mirabello. Varese is also known for its vibrant music scene and hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year. The city is easily accessible by train or car from Milan and other nearby cities.

What to visit in Varese

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Varese, Italy and some information about each one: 1. Sacro Monte di Varese: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of chapels and gardens located on a hilltop overlooking the city. The chapels feature frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
2. Villa Panza: This beautiful 18th-century villa features a large collection of contemporary art, including works by Dan Flavin and James Turrell.
3. Campo dei Fiori Regional Park: This park encompasses over 6,000 hectares of forested hills and offers hiking trails, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
4. Estense Palace: This historic palace houses the Varese Civic Museum and is known for its ornate Baroque architecture.
5. Lake Varese: This picturesque lake is popular for boating and fishing, and is surrounded by walking and cycling paths.
6. Masnago Castle: This medieval castle now serves as a museum of local history and art.
7. Santa Maria del Monte: This beautiful church is built into the side of the mountain and features stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Piazza Monte Grappa: This pedestrian square in the heart of Varese is surrounded by cafes and shops and is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
9. Marchesa di Barolo Botanical Garden: This beautiful botanical garden features over 1,500 species of plants from around the world.
10. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Varese: This museum features a comprehensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Italian artists like Lucio Fontana and Giuseppe Penone.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Varese.

When to go on holiday to Varese

The best time to visit Varese is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. The weather is warm and pleasant, and the city is lush and green. It is also the peak season for tourism, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of March and October. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable during these months. The winter months of December through February are the least popular for tourism due to cold temperatures and shorter daylight hours, but if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing, Varese can be an excellent destination during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Varese

There are several ways to get to Varese, Italy: 1. By plane: The nearest airport is Milan Malpensa International Airport, which is about 20 km away from Varese. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a train to Varese.
2. By train: There are direct trains from Milan to Varese, which takes about 1 hour. The Milano Nord Cadorna railway station in Milan is the closest to Varese.
3. By car: Varese is well connected to the Italian highway network. The A8 motorway connects Varese to Milan and the nearby Swiss border.
4. By bus: There are several bus services that operate between Varese and other cities in Italy and Switzerland. Once you arrive in Varese, the city has an efficient local public transportation network and it's easy to get around by bus or train.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Varese, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Varese

Sure, here are some typical foods of Varese, Italy: 1. Pizzoccheri: This dish consists of buckwheat noodles served with vegetables, cheese and butter.
2. Risotto alla varesina: A creamy risotto made with saffron, bone marrow, and grana padano cheese.
3. Ossobuco: A slow cooked dish made with veal shanks, vegetables, and white wine.
4. Polenta Taragna: A hearty dish made from cornmeal and buckwheat flour, topped with melted cheese and butter.
5. Panettone: A sweet bread loaf typically eaten during the Christmas season, made with candied fruits and raisins.
6. Amaretti: A type of Italian cookie made with ground almonds and flavored with almond extract.
7. Cotoletta alla milanese: A breaded and fried veal cutlet usually served with a side of potatoes.
8. Gorgonzola cheese: A type of blue cheese produced in Varese that is creamy and tangy in flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Varese an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other Italian cities such as Rome or Venice, Varese is a relatively affordable destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, dining, and activities in Varese is generally lower than in the larger tourist destinations. However, it is important to keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation and activities chosen. Overall, Varese can provide a relatively budget-friendly experience for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Varese

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Varese are: 1. City Center: Staying in the city center is convenient as most of the attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance.
2. Lake Varese: This area offers scenic views of the lake and is close to recreational activities like boating and cycling.
3. Campo dei Fiori Regional Park: If you enjoy nature and outdoor activities, staying in this area is perfect as it is home to beautiful parks and hiking trails.
4. Sacro Monte di Varese: This UNESCO World Heritage site houses a series of chapels and churches and staying in this area provides easy access to it.
5. University of Insubria: If you are visiting Varese for academic purposes, staying near the University of Insubria is ideal.
You can check hotel prices at Varese here:
Booking.com

Is Varese a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Varese is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low and the city is well-maintained. However, as with any city, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and common sense when traveling, especially at night or in areas that are less populated. It's also advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe. Overall, Varese is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Varese.

What type of travelers will enjoy Varese the most?

Varese, Italy offers something for everyone. Here are some specific types of travelers who may enjoy Varese the most: 1. Couples: Varese is a great place for couples looking for a romantic getaway. They can enjoy long walks along Lake Varese, visit beautiful parks like the Parco di Villa Toeplitz, and explore the charming historic center of the city.
2. Young people looking for fun: Varese offers a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that offer a great atmosphere. Young people can enjoy the exciting nightlife in the city center or participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or water sports.
3. Families: Families will enjoy the many parks and museums in Varese, including the delightful Villa e Collezione Panza, which offers art exhibitions in a beautiful villa setting. The city also offers opportunities for family-friendly outdoor activities like biking or hiking.
Overall, Varese is a wonderful destination that caters to many different types of travelers and offers something for everyone regardless of age, gender or interests.

How to get around Varese

Some of the common modes of transportation to move around Varese include buses, taxis, bicycles, and walking. Additionally, you could also rent a car if you prefer to have more freedom in your travels. The public transportation system in Varese is quite efficient, and there are several bus lines that connect different parts of the city. Bicycles are also a fantastic mode of transportation as Varese is filled with cycling paths.

What to see around Varese

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Varese: 1. Lake Maggiore: This beautiful lake is just a short drive from Varese and offers stunning views, a variety of water activities, and charming lakeside towns to explore.
2. Como: The town of Como is located on the shores of Lake Como and is known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and historic architecture. It's also a great place for shopping and dining.
3. Lugano: Lugano is a picturesque Swiss town located just over the border from Italy. It offers stunning views of Lake Lugano, as well as a variety of cultural attractions and excellent restaurants.
4. Milan: The bustling city of Milan is just a short train ride from Varese and offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, as well as great shopping and dining.
5. Bellagio: Located on the shores of Lake Como, Bellagio is renowned for its quaint streets, colorful houses, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
6. Lago di Varese: If you're looking for a more peaceful and natural day trip option, Lago di Varese is a beautiful lake surrounded by hiking and cycling trails, as well as charming towns and villages to explore. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any more information.
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